'Everything is moving forwards' for the Anchors

STOCKTON TOWN CHAIRMAN SEES A BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD FOR THE CLUB

- By MARK CARRUTHERS

CHAIRMAN Martin Hillerby has insisted Stockton Town will bounce back from their play-off heartache and strive for new heights in the near future.

After a remarkable first season in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, Michael Dunwell’s side appeared to have moved within 90 minutes of securing a first promotion into the National League North with a narrow home win in their play-off semi-final against Guiseley.

However, it would be the Lions that would go on to face Worksop Town in the final after the Anchors were denied a place in the final after being punished for fielding an ineligible player in their win against the Yorkshire outfit.

Such a blow would devastate some - but after recovering from a number of cruel blows in the past, Stockton’s resolve remains strong and a bright future still lies within their grasp. When asked about the mood at the club after a disappointing end to the season, Hillerby told The Gazette: “We've had many setbacks over the years.

“We had four years being unable to get out of the Wearside League (due to ground grading issues). We had an eight games at the start of the Northern League Division One season where we didn’t get a point, defeat at Wembley in the FA Vase final.